The annual Santa Hash kicks off this weekend, we caught up with Mark Woodward from the “drinking group with a running problem” to find out more about this event.

What is the Santa Hash?
The three-day event brings together all the sects of the Hash House Harrier running groups in Shanghai to run for a good cause. On Friday night there is a run around town. Then Saturday we will follow a trail outside the city, and Sunday is a recovery run of sorts. There are also social events every evening. All proceeds go to support Shanghai Sunrise charity.

Can anyone hash?
Everyone is welcome. We are a mix of expats and locals, from the unemployed to CEOs of companies here. Some people just walk while others are triathletes and ultra-marathon runners. We take all ages, too―we have young kids and guys in their 70s, fit trainers and guys with big beer bellies.

How far do you run?
We run anywhere between five and 10km. Once a month we will go to Hangzhou or Suzhou, and Sundays are usually a longer run for us. The hash is like an old paper chase on a trail. The hasher runs ahead leaving checks and force trails, meaning there are no markings anywhere in any direction for 100 meters. They will try to trick the runners. It is quite childish and very fun.

Any weird obstacles you encounter while running around Shanghai?
I did have the police come to my house last week. I was setting a trail in flour. They thought it was some sort of poison. People do fall over and hurt themselves, and stray dogs can be an issue. It is always an adventure.

DETAILS

What：Santa Hash

When: Friday, Dec. 9

Web: santahash.weebly.com/itinerary2.html